2. amps-preamps
  3. 1359594093

New Preamp Suggestion

A friend of mine is running a pair of Revel Salon 2's with a pair of Classe CA-M600 amps. His current preamp (Pass XP-10) is likely going to be traded. He wants to find a preamp that will give him the following:

1. Better instrument separation
2. More air around vocals and instruments
3. Tighter bass control
4. Deeper soundstage

Budget is $8000ish

Thoughts?

I was thinking a used ARC REF 5SE, but a better suggestion might be the Cary SLP-05. Obviously there are lots of great preamps out there. BAT, CJ, etc.

Thanks!
mbovaird
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
7,068 posts
 
If the Classe has balanced inputs, you might want to consider a preamp with balanced outputs. This works better for the amp and the cables involved.
timlub
1,649 posts
 
Coda has a new model 07R... Cut from the same cloth as the Pass... I've use the CL for a couple of years, it is very good.
bo1972's avatar
bo1972
2,626 posts
 
You have to understand what the properties are of brands like Classe and Pass Labs. I sold Classe for many years but in sound realism it is not the same league as Pass Labs. Classe has not the same level of focus to instruments. Pass is able to let you hear easily the difference between two different acoustic guitars in a recording. Played on a Classe this is a lot more difficult I think wenn you buy a used Pass Labs XA350.5 the end results will be better. I always say to my clients: You need to get the most maximum advance for the money you want to spend.
dave_72
1,399 posts
 
@Jmcgrogan2. I did not know that. Ok, he'll be fine then. Thanks. Anyway, I was just giving a general warning there.
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